Upcoming Elections: 2013

It seems like we just put the presidential election behind us, and, yet, there are already more elections to think about in terms of gun rights. Most political observers are already looking to 2014 with an anticipated competitive gubernatorial race and the possibility of at least one open Congressional seat. However, gun owners have a chance to make a difference for the Second Amendment in this year’s municipal elections against mayors who have been quietly lobbying Washington, DC officials in support of a ban on semi-automatic rifles.

Below, you’ll find just a few of the mayors in select counties facing election this year who have joined with New York City’s Michael Bloomberg to lobby against your right to bear arms.

Many of these mayoral races are unchallenged, but others are closer than you can imagine. For example, Penndel’s 2009 mayoral race was decided by just 68 votes. For a tiny borough like Penndel, that seems like a pretty big margin. However, it doesn’t take into account significantly decreased turnouts. Fewer than 26% of registered voters in Bucks County actually cast a ballot in local races that year.

Across the border into Montgomery County, the mayoral race for Pottstown was decided by just 2 percentage points. Somewhat farther north, the mayor of Roseto in Northampton County was elected by only 53 votes. Out in the west, Ingram’s anti-gun advocate mayor in Allegheny County won his last election by just 9 votes!

Right now, candidates for municipal elections are still circulating petitions to get on the primary ballots on May 21. You may be able to find out from local opposing parties if there are known candidates for the office yet.